Shatrughan Sinha and Wife Poonam Visit Hema Malini to Inquire About Dharmendra's Health; 'Our Prayers Are With Them,' Says the Veteran Actor

In a heartwarming display of enduring camaraderie, veteran Bollywood actor and politician Shatrughan Sinha, along with his wife Poonam Sinha, paid a visit to the residence of Hema Malini on Monday to inquire about the health of her husband and iconic actor, Dharmendra. The visit comes after the 89-year-old 'He-Man' of Bollywood was recently discharged from a Mumbai hospital and is currently recuperating at home. Shatrughan Sinha took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share the news of his visit, posting pictures with Hema Malini and expressing his solidarity with the family. In his post, he referred to Dharmendra as his 'elder brother' and conveyed his prayers for his speedy recovery. "Along with my 'bestest half' @PoonamSinha went to meet, greet & God Bless, our very dear family friend, one of the finest human beings, star/actress, par excellence, artist of the highest calibre, an able Parliamentarian @dreamgirlhema," Sinha wrote. He added, "Our prayers are with them all & we inquired about 'his' our elder brother's & the family's wellbeing too." Dharmendra was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on October 31 after reportedly experiencing breathlessness. After more than a week of medical care, he was discharged on November 12. The family has been providing him with care at home to ensure a comfortable and familiar environment for his recovery. Dr. Pratit Samdani, who has been overseeing his treatment, confirmed that the actor's medical care would continue at home. The period of Dharmendra's hospitalization was fraught with anxiety for his family and fans, exacerbated by the circulation of false rumors about his health on social media. Hema Malini had taken to X to quash these baseless reports, calling them 'unforgivable' and 'disrespectful'. The family has since requested privacy and urged the media and the public to refrain from speculation. A statement released by the family expressed gratitude for the love and prayers, saying, "We appreciate everyone's love, prayers, and good wishes for his continued recovery, good health, and long life. Please respect him because he loves you." The challenging time has taken a toll on the family, with Hema Malini admitting, “It has not been an easy time for me.” She also shared that Dharmendra's children have been sleepless with worry. The family's concern was evident when Sunny Deol was seen losing his temper with paparazzi stationed outside their residence. This incident drew support from several industry personalities who condemned the intrusive media coverage. Shatrughan Sinha's visit has been met with warm appreciation from fans on social media, who have praised the enduring bond of friendship between the veteran actors. Many have echoed his prayers for Dharmendra's swift return to good health. One user commented, “What a beautiful moment captured – timeless grace and warmth in one frame! Sir @ShatruganSinha, your words ring so true; @dreamgirlhema ji's elegance and poise are unmatched, and it's heartening to see such enduring bonds. Praying for @aapkadharam ji's swift recovery and good health for the entire family. God bless you all!” Shatrughan Sinha and Dharmendra share a long history of friendship and have co-starred in several films, including the memorable 'Dost'. As Dharmendra approaches his 90th birthday on December 8, his family and well-wishers are hopeful for his continued recovery. Hema Malini has expressed her hope of celebrating this milestone, stating, “If God is willing, we will be celebrating two birthdays next month — Dharamji's and Esha's.” The film fraternity has been united in its support for the legendary actor, with many prominent figures, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan, reportedly checking on his health. As the veteran actor continues his recovery, the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and fans serves as a testament to the indelible mark he has left on Indian cinema.